Media Statement AUSTRALIA’S ROLE IN INTERNATIONAL SHIPPING RECOGNISED BY THE IMO

Australia has been re-elected to second place on the Council of the International Maritime Organization (IMO) reflecting our role as a key voice in international shipping.

The result formally recognises Australia’s commitment to the IMO and its important work in international maritime safety, security and pollution prevention.

Australia was elected equal second from our previous position of 18 at the IMO’s 27th Assembly in London which meets every two years.

The Gillard Government’s recently announced shipping reforms, Australia’s strong record on maritime safety, environmental protection of the sea and the role played by AMSA were key factors in this outstanding result.

We play a significant role on the Council, representing the fourth largest shipping task in the world, with most of these vessels transiting close to significant natural marine and coastal habitats.

I take this opportunity to commend Australia’s maritime agencies and industry for their willingness and cooperative approach to meeting Australia’s international obligations.

It is also worth mentioning the efforts of John Dauth, Australian High Commissioner to the UK, who was appointed last year by the Government as Australia’s first Permanent Representative to the IMO.

Australia is one of few countries to have served for over 40 years on the Council since the inception of the IMO in 1959, in recognition of the leadership our country has provided in our region.

It is critical that shipping, fundamental to Australia’s economic vitality, meets the highest safety and environmental standards. This result is a signal that we are a major player in this organisation with a deep-seated commitment to its goals.

The IMO is a specialised agency of the United Nations with responsibility for the safety and security of shipping and the prevention of marine pollution by ships. For more information visit: www.imo.org.